Magic Grip Tool Too heavy and you cannot wield it properly. Too light and you don't have the weight to carry it through its stroke without extra effort from you. Size The size of the gardening tool is not about how much mud or earth you can shift in a singe stroke, and more about comfort and not doing yourself an injury. Choose a tool suitable in height for you to use in a comfortable position or if a hand tool, one that fits the size of your hands comfortably. Above all gardening should be enjoyable, and if you're comfortable the work is that much easier! For every gardener the most basic tools you will need are a Trowel and Hand Fork. These gardening hand tools come in various materials and quality, and of course costs but you should with proper care, keep them for many years - So in my opinion you are always best going for quality.